The Two Kingdoms

What does it mean to live as citizens of this world and of the world to come? How can we render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s and unto God what is God’s? In recent years, a new controversy has arisen concerning these ancient questions, and especially concerning the meaning and relevance of the Reformation doctrine of the Two Kingdoms. What is at stake in these debates is not simply the shape of Christian politics, but the very meaning of what the Church is, the nature of human and divine authority, and the scope of Christian discipleship.

In this concise guide, Reformation scholar and Christian ethicist Dr. Littlejohn first outlines the history of the doctrine by analyzing the writings of various reformers such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, and from the post-Reformation era, clarifying common misunderstandings. He then shows that the doctrine of the two kingdoms can offer a valuable framework for thinking about pastoring, politics, and even financial administration. The result is a masterful exposition of political theology.